Phone robberies

Newark Police investigate two phone robberies

3:23 p.m., Feb. 27, 2013--Newark Police are investigating two recent, unrelated strong-arm robberies in which cell phones were taken from University of Delaware students.

Feb. 25 incident

The first incident occurred around 8:55 p.m., Monday, Feb. 25, on South Chapel Street, north of Continental Avenue, in Newark. The 21-year-old female student was walking southbound with her phone in her hand when she saw a woman walking toward her. The victim said the woman started running at her and grabbed the phone and also tried to steal her purse, but was unsuccessful. The suspect fled the area, running between the 700 and 800 buildings of Scholar Drive. A canine track was initiated with the assistance of the UD Police canine unit without result.

This suspect is described as being 20-23 years old with a fit build, weighing 120-130 pounds, approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall, wearing all black and a black baseball style hat.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Detective Fred Nelson at 302-366-7110, ext. 136, or frederick.nelson@cj.state.de.us.

Feb. 26 incident

The second incident occurred around 1:25 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 26, on Papermill Road, near Creek View Road. A 23-year-old graduate student was walking on the sidewalk when she was approached by a man who pushed her, demanded property and grabbed the cell phone in her hand. He then fled south on Papermill Road. The student was not injured. Newark Police responded with a canine team from New Castle County Police, but the suspect was not located.

The suspect in this incident is described as 20-25 years of age, wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans. Newark Police have released a surveillance photo of him.

Anonymous tips on either case can be texted to 302NPD with the message to TIP411. Information also can be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or www.tipsubmit.com, where a reward may be available.

Safety tips

UD Police remind members of the University community to take precautions to safeguard themselves against crime:

• Show a confident attitude and be alert and aware of your surroundings.

• Avoid walking alone at night. Walk with a group, ride a University bus or call Public Safety for a walking escort.

• Use well-lighted paths and sidewalks, and take the most direct route.

• Report all suspicious activity by calling 911.

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